German weapons exports decline significantly in 2014 32506151

His efforts have paid off to a certain extent. Total weapons exports approved by the German government dropped to 6.5 billion euros ($7.3 billion) in 2014, down 1.8 billion euros compared to 2013, according to the government's latest weapons exports report, which the Cabinet approved on Wednesday, June 24.

The government said the exports that it groups in the "separate license approval" category stood at their lowest level in seven years at just under 4 billion euros. The number is of particular interest as it contains exports going to countries seen as less reliable than traditional allies, such as Saudi Arabia.

Exports to so-called third countries, mainly non-EU or EU-affiliated nations as well as non-NATO countries - made up 60.5 percent of exports, down 1.5 percent from 2013.

Ships and submarines for South Korea, Singapore, Saudi Arabia and Israel made up the lion's share of exports in that category.

The government report also said approved exports of small arms had almost halved in 2014, amounting to 47.4 million euros. The report stressed that the government had been particularly careful in awarding licenses in that category.